Topically

Barberry is a bush that grows wild in Europe and North America. It is closely related to
Oregon grape
(
Berberis aquifolium
). The root, stem, bark, and fruit of barberry are all used medicinally. Barberry was traditionally used as a treatment for digestive problems, including constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia (stomach upset), heartburn, and loss of appetite. It was said to work by increasing the flow of bile, and on this basis it has also been used for liver and gallbladder problems. Topical preparations of barberry have been recommended for the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds.

Barberry, like
goldenseal
and
Oregon grape
, contains the chemical berberine. There has been some studies of purified berberine that might apply to barberry, as well. Berberine inhibits the growth of many microorganisms, including fungi, protozoa, and bacteria.
5-11,22
In one placebo-controlled study, berberine effectively reduced lung injury among lung cancer patients receiving radiation therapy.
23

Topical formulations of the related plant
Oregon grape
have shown some promise for
psoriasis
,
15-17
and barberry has been marketed for this condition as well. However, there is no direct evidence that it works.

Dosage

Barberry is traditionally used at a dose of 2 grams three times daily, or an equivalent amount in extract form. For treatment of
psoriasis
and other skin conditions, barberry is used in the form of a 10% cream, applied to the skin three times daily.

Safety Issues

One study suggests that topical use of berberine could cause photosensitivity (an increased tendency to react to sun exposure.
18
Berberine-containing herbs should not be used by pregnant women because berberine may increase levels of bilirubin,
19
potentially damaging the fetus, and might also cause genetic damage.
20
Individuals who already have elevated levels of bilirubin (jaundice), or any other form of liver disease, should also avoid berberine-containing herbs.

Safety in young children and nursing women has not been established.

One study hints that berberine may decrease the efficacy of the drug tetracycline.
21

Interactions You Should Know About

If you are using antibiotics in the
tetracycline
family, barberry might decrease their effectiveness.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.